Potassium Cl 10meq ER Tablets
It is used to treat or prevent low potassium levels.
Drug Class
Electrolyte replacement
Pharmacologic Class
Potassium supplement
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Potassium chloride is a medicine used to replace potassium in your body when your levels are too low. Potassium is a very important mineral that helps your heart, muscles, and nerves work properly. This extended-release tablet slowly releases the medicine over time to help prevent stomach upset.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication Correctly
To ensure you get the most benefit from your medication, follow these steps:
Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
Read all the information provided with your medication and follow the instructions carefully.
Take your medication with or immediately after a meal.
Swallow your medication with a full glass of water.
Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, break, or crush it.
Do not suck on the tablet.
If you have difficulty swallowing, consult your doctor for guidance.
Some formulations may be broken in half or mixed with water. Check with your doctor to see if this is an option for your specific medication. If you can mix your medication with water, follow these steps:
+ Mix the tablet with 1/2 cup of water.
+ Drink the mixture immediately.
+ Rinse the cup with more water and drink.
+ Rinse the cup again and drink to ensure you take the entire dose.
Do not store the mixture for later use; take it right away.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
To maintain the effectiveness and safety of your medication:
Store it at room temperature, protected from light.
Keep it in a dry place, away from the bathroom.
Store all medications in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so.
Consult your pharmacist for guidance on the best way to dispose of your medication. You may also have access to drug take-back programs in your area.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, follow these steps:
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
If it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
* Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
To ensure you get the most benefit from your medication, follow these steps:
Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
Read all the information provided with your medication and follow the instructions carefully.
Take your medication with or immediately after a meal.
Swallow your medication with a full glass of water.
Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, break, or crush it.
Do not suck on the tablet.
If you have difficulty swallowing, consult your doctor for guidance.
Some formulations may be broken in half or mixed with water. Check with your doctor to see if this is an option for your specific medication. If you can mix your medication with water, follow these steps:
+ Mix the tablet with 1/2 cup of water.
+ Drink the mixture immediately.
+ Rinse the cup with more water and drink.
+ Rinse the cup again and drink to ensure you take the entire dose.
Do not store the mixture for later use; take it right away.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
To maintain the effectiveness and safety of your medication:
Store it at room temperature, protected from light.
Keep it in a dry place, away from the bathroom.
Store all medications in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so.
Consult your pharmacist for guidance on the best way to dispose of your medication. You may also have access to drug take-back programs in your area.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, follow these steps:
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
If it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
* Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take with food and a full glass of water (at least 4-8 ounces) to reduce stomach upset and prevent irritation.
- Swallow tablets whole; do not crush, chew, or suck on them, as this can cause severe irritation or ulceration in the esophagus or stomach.
- Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking the dose.
- Avoid salt substitutes that contain potassium unless advised by your doctor.
- Report any signs of stomach pain, black/tarry stools, or vomiting blood immediately.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Hypokalemia: 20 mEq to 100 mEq per day in 1 to 5 divided doses. Prevention: 20 mEq per day.
Dose Range:
20 - 100 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
hypokalemia_mild:
20-40 mEq/day in 1-2 divided doses
hypokalemia_moderate_severe:
40-100 mEq/day in 2-5 divided doses, adjusted based on serum potassium levels and clinical response
prevention_hypokalemia:
20 mEq/day
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (use liquid formulations for precise dosing)
Infant:
Not established (use liquid formulations for precise dosing)
Child:
Not established (use liquid formulations for precise dosing, generally 2-3 mEq/kg/day in divided doses, max 100 mEq/day)
Adolescent:
Similar to adult dosing, but generally prefer liquid or powder for precise titration and to avoid pill burden/choking risk.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Use with caution, monitor serum potassium closely.
Moderate:
Reduced dose or increased dosing interval; monitor serum potassium frequently. Avoid if possible.
Severe:
Contraindicated due to high risk of hyperkalemia.
Dialysis:
Contraindicated in most cases due to high risk of hyperkalemia, unless specifically indicated for severe hypokalemia and under strict monitoring.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment needed, but monitor for conditions that may affect renal function (e.g., hepatorenal syndrome).
Moderate:
No specific adjustment needed.
Severe:
No specific adjustment needed.
Confidence:
Medium
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Potassium is the principal intracellular cation and is essential for the maintenance of acid-base balance, isotonicity, and the electrodynamic characteristics of the cell. It is involved in many enzymatic reactions and plays a vital role in the physiological processes of nerve impulse transmission, contraction of cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscle, and maintenance of normal renal function. Potassium chloride extended-release tablets provide a controlled release of potassium ions to replenish depleted body stores.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Nearly complete (for potassium ion)
Tmax:
Approximately 4-6 hours (for extended-release formulations)
FoodEffect:
Food may slow absorption but generally does not affect the extent of absorption. Taking with food can reduce GI irritation.
Distribution:
Vd:
Approximately 0.5 L/kg (reflects total body water)
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable (ion)
CnssPenetration:
Limited (maintains extracellular concentration)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (homeostatically regulated electrolyte)
Clearance:
Primarily renal excretion, regulated by aldosterone and acid-base status.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (primarily), small amounts in feces and sweat.
Unchanged:
100% (as potassium ion)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Hours (for therapeutic effect on serum levels)
PeakEffect:
Variable, depends on formulation and individual absorption/excretion. Serum levels peak within hours.
DurationOfAction:
Approximately 8-12 hours (due to extended-release formulation)
Confidence:
Medium
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following signs or symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
Allergic reaction symptoms, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high potassium levels, including:
+ Abnormal heartbeat
+ Confusion
+ Weakness, lightheadedness, or dizziness
+ Feeling like passing out
+ Numbness or tingling
+ Shortness of breath
Slow heartbeat
Chest pain or pressure
Bowel problem symptoms, such as:
+ Black, tarry, or bloody stools
+ Fever
+ Mucus in the stools
+ Vomiting blood or coffee ground-like material
+ Severe stomach pain, constipation, or diarrhea
Abdominal swelling
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Stomach pain or diarrhea
Upset stomach or vomiting
Gas
Note: Some potassium products have a wax matrix that may be visible in your stool. This is a normal occurrence, as the potassium has been absorbed by the body, but the wax has not.
Reporting Side Effects
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following signs or symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
Allergic reaction symptoms, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high potassium levels, including:
+ Abnormal heartbeat
+ Confusion
+ Weakness, lightheadedness, or dizziness
+ Feeling like passing out
+ Numbness or tingling
+ Shortness of breath
Slow heartbeat
Chest pain or pressure
Bowel problem symptoms, such as:
+ Black, tarry, or bloody stools
+ Fever
+ Mucus in the stools
+ Vomiting blood or coffee ground-like material
+ Severe stomach pain, constipation, or diarrhea
Abdominal swelling
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Stomach pain or diarrhea
Upset stomach or vomiting
Gas
Note: Some potassium products have a wax matrix that may be visible in your stool. This is a normal occurrence, as the potassium has been absorbed by the body, but the wax has not.
Reporting Side Effects
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Signs of too much potassium (hyperkalemia): unusual tiredness, weakness, numbness or tingling in hands/feet, slow or irregular heartbeat, muscle cramps, confusion.
- Signs of stomach/intestinal problems: severe stomach pain, black or tarry stools, vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, severe nausea or vomiting, difficulty swallowing.
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including the symptoms that occurred.
Elevated potassium levels in your blood.
Current use of certain medications, including:
+ Amiloride
+ Eplerenone
+ Spironolactone
+ Triamterene
Presence of specific health conditions, such as:
+ Intestinal blockage
+ Slow movement of food through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract
+ Delayed stomach emptying
+ Heart disease accompanied by esophageal problems
* Use of anticholinergic medications, such as:
+ Ipratropium
+ Oxybutynin
If you are unsure whether any of your medications are anticholinergics, consult your doctor.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. This will help determine whether it is safe to take this medication in conjunction with your other treatments. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including the symptoms that occurred.
Elevated potassium levels in your blood.
Current use of certain medications, including:
+ Amiloride
+ Eplerenone
+ Spironolactone
+ Triamterene
Presence of specific health conditions, such as:
+ Intestinal blockage
+ Slow movement of food through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract
+ Delayed stomach emptying
+ Heart disease accompanied by esophageal problems
* Use of anticholinergic medications, such as:
+ Ipratropium
+ Oxybutynin
If you are unsure whether any of your medications are anticholinergics, consult your doctor.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. This will help determine whether it is safe to take this medication in conjunction with your other treatments. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Regular blood tests will be necessary, as directed by your doctor, to monitor your condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns or questions with your doctor.
To minimize the risk of severe side effects, it is crucial to adhere to the prescribed dosage and not exceed the amount recommended by your doctor. If you follow a low-salt diet or use a salt substitute, consult with your doctor to discuss any potential interactions.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, notify your doctor immediately. You and your doctor will need to carefully weigh the benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby to make an informed decision.
To minimize the risk of severe side effects, it is crucial to adhere to the prescribed dosage and not exceed the amount recommended by your doctor. If you follow a low-salt diet or use a salt substitute, consult with your doctor to discuss any potential interactions.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, notify your doctor immediately. You and your doctor will need to carefully weigh the benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby to make an informed decision.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Muscle weakness (flaccid paralysis)
- Paresthesia (tingling or numbness)
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats, including ventricular fibrillation and asystole)
- ECG changes (peaked T waves, prolonged PR interval, widened QRS complex, absent P waves)
What to Do:
Seek immediate medical attention or call a poison control center (1-800-222-1222). Treatment involves IV calcium (for cardiac stability), IV insulin and glucose, sodium bicarbonate, beta-agonists, and potentially dialysis to remove excess potassium.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride) in patients with impaired renal function or severe heart failure
- Eplerenone (in patients with impaired renal function or severe heart failure)
Major Interactions
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril, enalapril)
- Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) (e.g., valsartan, losartan)
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) - especially in patients with renal impairment
- Cyclosporine
- Tacrolimus
- Digoxin (hyperkalemia can antagonize digoxin effects, hypokalemia potentiates toxicity)
Moderate Interactions
- Beta-blockers (non-selective)
- Heparin
- Trimethoprim
- Pentamidine
- Sucralfate (may bind potassium, reducing absorption if taken concurrently)
- Laxatives (chronic use can lead to potassium loss, counteracting supplementation)
Minor Interactions
- Licorice (can cause hypokalemia, counteracting supplementation)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Serum Potassium (K+)
Rationale: To establish baseline level and guide initial dosing.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine, eGFR)
Rationale: To assess kidney's ability to excrete potassium, as impaired renal function significantly increases hyperkalemia risk.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Rationale: To assess for pre-existing cardiac conduction abnormalities, especially in patients with severe hypokalemia or suspected cardiac issues.
Timing: Prior to initiation, especially if K+ < 2.5 mEq/L.
Routine Monitoring
Serum Potassium (K+)
Frequency: Initially daily or every 2-3 days until stable, then weekly to monthly depending on patient stability and concomitant medications.
Target: 3.5 - 5.0 mEq/L
Action Threshold: Below 3.5 mEq/L (consider dose increase), Above 5.0 mEq/L (consider dose reduction/discontinuation), Above 5.5 mEq/L (urgent intervention for hyperkalemia).
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine)
Frequency: Periodically, especially if renal function is unstable or if patient is on concomitant nephrotoxic drugs.
Target: Within normal limits for age/sex
Action Threshold: Significant increase in creatinine or decrease in eGFR (consider dose adjustment or discontinuation).
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Frequency: As clinically indicated, especially if hyperkalemia is suspected or serum K+ is > 6.0 mEq/L.
Target: Normal sinus rhythm, no signs of hyperkalemia (peaked T waves, prolonged PR, widened QRS, absent P waves).
Action Threshold: ECG changes consistent with hyperkalemia (urgent intervention).
Symptom Monitoring
- Symptoms of hyperkalemia: muscle weakness, fatigue, paresthesia, bradycardia, irregular heartbeat, confusion.
- Symptoms of GI irritation/ulceration: severe abdominal pain, black/tarry stools, vomiting blood, severe nausea/vomiting, difficulty swallowing.
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Potassium is an essential electrolyte. While potassium chloride is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when indicated for hypokalemia, it should be used with caution and only when clearly needed. Category C due to lack of adequate, well-controlled studies in pregnant women, but risk is generally low when used appropriately.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
No specific increased risk identified beyond general electrolyte balance.
Second Trimester:
No specific increased risk identified.
Third Trimester:
No specific increased risk identified.
Lactation
Potassium is a normal component of breast milk. Supplementation with potassium chloride is generally considered safe during breastfeeding when used at therapeutic doses to correct maternal hypokalemia. Infant risk is low (L1).
Infant Risk:
Low risk (L1)
Pediatric Use
Extended-release tablets are generally not recommended for young children due to the risk of choking and the inability to precisely adjust doses. Liquid or powder formulations are preferred for pediatric patients. Dosing must be carefully calculated based on weight and severity of hypokalemia, with close monitoring of serum potassium.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients are at increased risk for hyperkalemia due to age-related decline in renal function and increased likelihood of concomitant medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs, NSAIDs, potassium-sparing diuretics) that can elevate potassium levels. Close monitoring of serum potassium and renal function is essential. Start with lower doses and titrate carefully.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Always check serum potassium and renal function before initiating and during therapy.
- Instruct patients to swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water and food to minimize GI irritation and ulceration.
- Advise patients not to crush, chew, or suck on the tablets.
- Be vigilant for signs and symptoms of hyperkalemia, especially in patients with renal impairment, diabetes, or those on interacting medications.
- Consider alternative formulations (liquid, powder) for patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets or are at high risk for GI lesions.
- Potassium chloride is a salt, not a typical drug; its 'half-life' is not applicable in the same way as other medications, as it's homeostatically regulated.
Alternative Therapies
- Potassium chloride liquid solution
- Potassium chloride powder for oral solution
- Potassium gluconate (less potassium per dose, often used for milder deficiencies)
- Potassium bicarbonate (often combined with potassium citrate, useful if metabolic acidosis is also present)
- Dietary potassium intake (e.g., bananas, oranges, potatoes, leafy greens) for mild deficiencies or prevention.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$10 - $50 per 30 tablets (10 mEq)
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 (Generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.